The man has been quizzed over underage sex claims as part of the Metropolitan Police's Operation Yewtree.

The probe, which was set up after Savile was accused of sexual offences against underage girls, has so far questioned high-profile figures such as Gary Glitter, Freddie Starr and Radio 1 DJ Dave Lee Travis.

A source close to the questioned TV star told The Mirror: "He decided to seek treatment as everything has been very difficult since the police got in touch.

"He's adamant he has done nothing wrong. But that does not stop this being an incredibly stressful time.

"This would be a harrowing experience for anyone - let alone a man in his 80s. He is in a bad way, his family and friends are deeply concerned for his wellbeing.

"Nobody close to him is taking any risks, he is a very ill man at the moment so is being treated at the highest level. It has been a very sad Christmas for everyone close to him, spending the festive season in a psychiatric hospital has been very upsetting for him too."